Gabriel Named To 2013 Junior National TeamErin Gabriel, a 2011 Junior National Team member, will once again represent the Red, White and Blue

April 1, 2013

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Tennessee freshman Erin Gabriel has been named to the 2013 USA Softball Junior Women's National Team (JWNT), as announced by the Amateur Softball Association (ASA) of America and USA Softball on Friday.

Gabriel, who starred on the 2011 Junior Women's National Team, was one of 17 student-athletes chosen for the team, which will compete in preparation exhibition games in Glenville, W.Va., on June 24 before heading to Brampton, Ontario Canada to play in the International Softball Federation (ISF) X Jr. Women's World Championship (19-and-under) from July 1-7.

Gabriel was a member of the 2010-11 Junior Women's National Team and won gold at the 2011 ISF Jr. Women's World Championship in South Africa. Fellow Lady Vol Cheyanne Tarango hit a grand slam to give the U.S. a 4-1 victory over Japan. Gabriel was the only high school student-athlete on that team and earned the win over host country South Africa, striking out three in a five-inning shutout. She also competed in the 2010 Pan American Championship (18-Under), earning gold for the Red White in Blue.

Cal State Northridge head coach Tairia Flowers will lead the 2013 USA Softball Junior Women's National Team. Oregon State head coach Laura Berg, Fresno state head coach Trisha Ford and UNLV head coach Lisa Dodd will serve as assistant coaches.

"Our staff is excited to lead these ladies into the World Championship arena this summer as we look to keep the tradition of USA Softball at the top of the podium alive," Flowers said. "Being a part of this program is life changing and I am thrilled to work with this talented group of young athletes from all over the country. To represent your country in your sport is the highest honor and together we will work hard to be the best we can be and bring home the gold."